Federal funding sources are available to child support programs to establish employment and training programs. Review the materials related to these funding sources to determine which source meets your tribe's needs.
Section 1115 Waivers
By submitting a Section 1115 Waiver application, child support programs can use program funds for otherwise unallowable employment activities.
Tribal child support programs can request additional funds that they will use to support employment programs for noncustodial parents. This request is known as a “Section 1115 waiver.” Section 1115 of the Social Security Act provides the Department of Health and Human Services with the waiver authority to fund activities that would otherwise not be allowable.
- Waiver Information Sheet (PDF) - One page outlining use of Section 1115 waivers
- Waiver Application Guidance (PDF) - Detailed information on how to apply for a waiver
- Section 1115 Waivers - a webpage for both states and tribes to access information about waivers through OCSS
Section 1115 Policy
Policy Resources
- OCSS-TDCL-24-02- Section 1115 Waiver Requests for Tribal Innovation
Explains use of 1115 waivers for innovation due to ineligibility for 1115 grants beginning October 1, 2024
- OCSS-IM-24-03: Section 1115 Waivers - Update
Outlines OCSS’s waiver authority under section 1115 under the Social Security Act and clarifies funding, waiver application and evaluation requirements, and technical assistance availability.
- OCSS-IM-25-05: Section 1115 Waivers to Fund NCP Work Activities - Update
Outlines section 1115 demonstration waivers that allow states and tribes to fund employment programs for noncustodial parents.
TANF
Although TANF is primarily a direct assistance program, regulations allow limited non-assistance expenditures. This can include activities to foster economic stability by helping noncustodial parents improve their economic status.
This overview provides information about creating partnerships with Tribal TANF agencies to provide noncustodial parent employment services.
Workforce Related Funds
Tribal child support programs can partner with tribal counterparts who have received funding through the Department of Labor Workforce Innovation Opportunity Act (WIOA) , Public Law 102-477 , Native Employment Works (NEW) and other community partners with funds to support employment and training activities.